Sunday, September 12, 2021

Junior Testing Recommendations

Juniors, let's talk for a second about college admissions tests and their practice tests that you should be considering for this school year... Here would be my general recommendations if you are planning on applying to a 4-year college after high school.

1. In October, take the PSAT.  This will be during the school day on Tuesday, October 26th.  It is the practice test for the SAT, but it is also the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarships.  The deadline to register for the PSAT (which is FREE for sophomores and juniors) is on Tuesday of this week (September 14th).

2.  In November, take the Pre-ACT.  This will be during the school day on Monday, November 8th.  It is the practice test for the ACT and it is a great, inexpensive way to practice for the ACT.  Cost will be $16 and registration will open in October.

3.  In December, consider strongly taking the ACT or SAT.  You don't have to take the test in December, but it's a good chance to take one of the college admissions tests.  If you are planning on focusing on the ACT, another great reason of taking the ACT in December is that you can also order (for an additional fee) your score questions and answers with the test which would allow you to review how you answered and what the right score is which can help better prepare you for the future tests.

4.  In March, take the ACT.  This will be during the school day on Tuesday, March 1st and is the FREE test opportunity that all juniors will get to take.

After that, depending on how you have scored you can determine the rest of your testing plan.  There will be more opportunities to test in the spring and summer as well as the early part of the fall during your senior year.

If you have any questions about these testing opportunities or why I am making these recommendations, please don't hesitate to stop and talk to me about it!  We also did a presentation to parents last week about testing as a whole and you and your parents can review the slides by visiting the counselor website.

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